Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK has today, Wednesday 3 January 2018, accepted the resignation of Kate Beecroft MHK as Minister for the Department of Health and Social Care.

Mrs Beecroft, who was appointed to head up the Department in October 2016, decided to step down following a meeting with the Chief Minister on Tuesday (2 January).

Mr Quayle said: ‘I understand Mrs Beecroft’s decision to relinquish her position as Minister for Health and Social Care. I called the meeting yesterday to have a full and frank conversation on a wide range of political and department issues, including the resignation of two departmental members. Following that meeting, I have today received and accepted the Minister’s resignation.’

He added: ‘I wish to place on record my thanks for her hard work over the past 14 months. Kate is passionate in her political convictions and has sought to put the Island’s health service on a sustainable footing for the next generation.

‘A new Minister for Health and Social Care will be appointed soon to work as part of the Council of Ministers to deliver the objectives of the Programme for Government.’